*Kevin Trainer works for the Philadelphia School Partnership (PSP). One of its ongoing projects is the publication of the annual GreatPhillySchools guidebook series. The guidebooks include information about all the local K-12 schools in two books – the High School Guide and the Elementary & Middle School Guide. This year, they are also offering Spanish-speaking families a Spanish Resource Guide. See http://greatphillyschools.org/en

The PSCA Zoning Committee reviewed the following cases at its February meeting. Results are below.

1536 Camac Street:

Second Appearance Application for a 2 story addition with roof deck and pilot house. Also requesting 2 off street interior parking spaces (Garage). For use as a 2-family dwelling. Refused for use, parking and open area in RSA-5 zoning district. Property was formerly an auto repair garage that has been vacant for many years. 4 votes non-opposition; 3 votes opposition with much community opposition.

1148 Wharton Street:

This was a preliminary presentation from the developer of Wharton Street Lofts (Formerly Annunciation School) who is hoping to purchase the parking lot on 12th street from the City of Philadelphia. Two scenarios were presented with two levels of parking (39 spaces), which developer states would be open to the public, and 34 units of one-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments. Much community opposition. Developer is willing to consider alternate designs. Development would probably not begin until about a year. As owners of the adjacent property, they would have the right to make a purchase or bid if the property becomes available.

1439 East Passyunk Avenue:

Application to change use from doctor’s office to retail gift shop first floor with existing single family dwelling on the second floor, which is not allowed in this zoning district. 7 votes non-opposition with community support.

1500 South 9th Street:

Application for the erection of a roof deck above the 1 story portion of an existing 2 story attached structure for the legalization of 1 accessory off street interior parking space (garage) for use as two family dwelling. Proposed use of 2 family dwelling: 4 votes opposition; 3 votes non-opposition. Proposed use of accessory parking: 7 votes non-opposition.

1428 South Clarion Street:

For the erection of an addition with a roof deck and roof deck access pilot house to an existing attached single family dwelling. 6 votes non-opposition; 1 abstention.

1100 Federal Street (Tiffin Bistro):

The owner is applying for a permit for seven tables of outdoor seating on the side walk on Federal and 11th St. 7 votes non-opposition.

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The PSCA Zoning Committee meetings are opportunities for neighbors to hear the details of zoning applications within our civic association boundaries. The Zoning Committee does not make final decisions on the applications, but it does send letters to the Philadelphia Zoning Board Administration. Check facebook.com/passyunksquare or twitter.com/passyunksquare for any last minute changes Please email zoning@passyunk.org with any zoning-related questions.